A Message from Mary Hanafin
Welcoming the launch of 'National Marriage Week' in February, Mary Hanafin
the former minister for Social and Family Affairs
said she applauded the community group of organizations working to
support the promotion of marriage in Ireland. She referred to a recent
report published by the Department, 'Families in Ireland - An Analysis
of Patterns and Trends' (click
here to view this report) which informs discussion of family issues
and highlights that the incidence of marriage in Ireland has increased
in the past decade, with 40% more marriages in 2006 than in 1995. "This
upward trend in marriages can be read as a sign of vitality in Irish
family life and is counter to the notion that the institution of
marriage is losing its appeal." She wished all all concerned continued success with this project.